Inca Jungle Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
- Cusco
- Santa Maria
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Overview
Experience the ultimate adventure with our Inca Jungle trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu, a thrilling journey combining mountain biking, trekking, and cultural exploration. Perfect for adrenaline seekers and nature enthusiasts, this tour takes you from the high-altitude Andean mountains to lush tropical cloud forests, offering breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and unique encounters with local communities along the way.
During this action-packed 3-day trek, you’ll enjoy an exhilarating downhill bike ride from Abra Málaga, hike through emerald valleys, visit natural hot springs, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the region. The tour concludes in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you can explore the legendary Inca citadel. The Inca Jungle trek offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and nature for travelers seeking an unforgettable alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
Inca Jungle trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
The Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days to Machu Picchu is an adventurous and unique route designed for travelers seeking a thrilling combination of adrenaline activities, nature exploration, and cultural immersion. Unlike traditional treks, this short 3-day itinerary features downhill mountain biking, hiking, and optional activities such as zip-lining and relaxing in natural hot springs, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a rich, active experience.
Starting in Cusco, you’ll descend by bike through the dramatic landscapes of the Abra Málaga pass before trekking along scenic jungle trails and passing through remote Andean villages. Each day includes cozy lodge accommodations and stunning views of the tropical cloud forest, culminating in the legendary Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the ancient Inca citadel with a professional guide.
Tour Details
- Tour Name: Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days to Machu Picchu
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Activity Level: Adventurous – includes biking, hiking, and optional zip-lining
- Group Size: Small groups (2–10 people)
- Starting Point: Cusco
- Ending Point: Cusco
- Max Altitude: 4,316 m / 14,160 ft (Abra Málaga)
- Min Altitude: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft (Aguas Calientes)
- Best Season: March to December
- Accommodation: Basic lodges and a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Transportation: Private van, mountain bikes, and train
- Highlight Activities: Downhill biking, trekking, hot springs, Machu Picchu tour
This Inca Jungle Trek is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to combine action, nature, and history in a short but intense 3-day adventure. From high-altitude passes to lush jungle trails, every step of the journey is filled with excitement, discovery, and unforgettable memories of the Inca heritage and Machu Picchu.
Highlights
- Thrilling Downhill Biking: Experience an adrenaline-pumping ride from the snow-capped Andes at Abra Málaga down to the lush high jungle, covering over 60 km of winding trails with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and cloud forests.
- Scenic Jungle Trekking: Walk along ancient Inca and jungle paths surrounded by vibrant waterfalls, coffee plantations, orchids, and exotic wildlife, fully immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Peruvian rainforest.
- Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind at the hidden Cocalmayo Hot Springs with its warm thermal pools, perfect for soothing your muscles after an active day of biking and trekking. Enjoy a magical experience under the stars (optional).
- Authentic Local Culture: Discover Aguas Calientes, the charming gateway town to Machu Picchu, explore its colorful markets, and indulge in traditional Peruvian cuisine prepared with local ingredients.
- Guided Machu Picchu Tour: Explore the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with a professional guide who reveals the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of the Lost City of the Incas.
- Perfect for Adventure Lovers: This trek combines biking, hiking, and cultural experiences in a unique 3-day adventure, ideal for travelers seeking excitement, nature, and history in one unforgettable journey.
- No Permit Required: Unlike the classic Inca Trail, no special permits are needed for the Inca Jungle Trail, making it a flexible and accessible option for last-minute travelers or those with limited time.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa
Start early with a hotel pick-up in Cusco and drive to Abra Málaga Pass (4,316 m / 14,160 ft). Begin a thrilling downhill bike ride through varied landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to the lush jungle. Stop in Santa María for lunch, then continue to Santa Teresa. Optionally, relax in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs. Overnight in a lodge or hostel.
Day 2: Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, trek through the Peruvian jungle, passing waterfalls, coffee plantations, and exotic wildlife. Stop for lunch near Hidroeléctrica, then continue walking along the railway track beside the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner while preparing for Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Rise early for the first bus or hike to Machu Picchu and experience sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour exploring temples, terraces, and plazas. Free time follows for optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to Cusco in the evening.
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa (Biking + Optional Hot Springs)
Your adventure begins early, around 6:00 AM, with a private pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We drive approximately 3 hours through picturesque valleys and snow-capped peaks to reach Abra Málaga Pass at 4,316 m (14,160 ft). Here, you’ll be equipped with high-quality safety gear and begin a thrilling downhill bike ride.
The 60-kilometer descent passes through diverse microclimates—from icy highlands to the warm, humid jungle. Along the way, enjoy stunning waterfalls, lush vegetation, and traditional Andean villages. Stop in Santa María for a delicious lunch and a short rest.
In the afternoon, continue by car to Santa Teresa. Optionally, relax in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a natural thermal pool complex (entrance not included). Overnight stay at a cozy eco-lodge or hostel in Santa Teresa.
Day 2: Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes (Trekking through the Jungle)
After breakfast, embark on a scenic trek through the Peruvian jungle. Wander along trails filled with fruit trees, waterfalls, orchids, and coffee plantations, while experiencing rural life in the high jungle.
Pause for lunch near Hidroeléctrica, a local train station area. Then continue the trek along the railway track beside the rushing Urubamba River for about 3 hours until you reach Aguas Calientes.
Check into a comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and receive a briefing from your guide about the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu. Rest well—you’ll need your energy for the final day.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco (Guided Tour of the Inca Citadel)
Rise early to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (or hike up for an active start). Witness the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas and begin a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. Explore temples, royal sectors, agricultural terraces, and fountains while learning about the history and spiritual significance of each site.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to wander the site at your own pace or optionally hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance tickets required).
In the afternoon, take the train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo, where a private driver will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco. Estimated arrival is between 8:00–9:00 PM, completing your unforgettable 3-day adventure.
What’s Included
- Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish) throughout the entire tour
- Briefing the day before the trek in Cusco
- Private transportation from Cusco to Abra Málaga (starting point)
- Mountain bikes and safety gear (helmet, gloves, reflective vest)
- 2 nights accommodation: basic lodges in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes
- All meals during the trek (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners)
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (
- Transfer back to Cusco by tourist transport
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
- Rafting and Ziplane
Return Options from Machu Picchu
You may choose either:
Train Return:
- Departure usually between 2:30 PM, 3:20 PM, 18:20 pm (depending on availability)
- Train to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours), then transfer to Cusco (2 hours)
- Arrival in Cusco around 6:30 PM, drop-off at Plaza Regocijo
Car Return (via Hydroelectric Station):
- Begin 3-hour walk back to Hidroeléctrica no later than 11:00 AM
- Arrive by 2:00 PM to board the 2:30 PM car
- Drive to Cusco takes 6–7 hours, arriving around 10:00 PM, drop-off at Plaza Regocijo
What’s Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1 & lunch/dinner on Day 3
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Cocalmayo Hot Springs (optional, around 15 soles)
- Zip-lining or other adventure sports in Santa Teresa (optional)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (available upon request)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses and tips for guides, cooks, and drivers
What to Bring for theInca Jungle Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
- Comfortable light hiking shoes or trail runners
- Small daypack (25–30L)
- Light clothing layers (t-shirts, long sleeves, trekking pants)
- Rain jacket or poncho (essential during rainy season)
- Swimsuit and towel (for hot springs in Santa Teresa)
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
- Insect repellent (especially for the jungle areas)
- Personal toiletries and hand sanitizer
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Personal medications (plus altitude pills if needed)
- Camera or smartphone with power bank
- Original passport (required for Machu Picchu entry)
- Some cash in soles for snacks, tips, and optional activities
Inca Jungle trek 3 Days – Frequently Asked Questions
Inca Jungle trek 3 Days – Frequently Asked QuestionsIs the Inca Jungle Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days is ideal for beginner hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Unlike high-altitude treks, this route mixes short hikes with adventure activities like downhill biking and optional zip-lining. The terrain is manageable, making it perfect for travelers seeking action, culture, and moderate trekking without the altitude challenges of the Classic Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
What kind of adventure activities are included in the Inca Jungle Trail?
The trek includes thrilling downhill mountain biking from Abra Málaga to Santa María, with optional zip-lining and hot springs in Santa Teresa. Certified guides provide proper safety equipment, combining adrenaline-packed experiences with scenic views of the Andes and jungle.
How should I prepare for the Inca Jungle Trek?
Preparation helps maximize enjoyment. Engage in light cardio or daily walks in the weeks before your trip and allow at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize. Pack lightweight clothes for warm jungle conditions, swimwear for hot springs, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A flexible mindset and readiness for adventure are just as important as physical preparation.
What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Accommodations are in basic hostels or lodges in Santa María and Aguas Calientes. Rooms are clean and comfortable, often with private bathrooms and hot showers. While simple, these lodges provide a restful environment. In Aguas Calientes, lodging tends to be more modern with better amenities to relax before visiting Machu Picchu.
Is the Inca Jungle Trek safe?
Yes. The trek is safe when guided by certified operators. Adventure activities follow strict safety protocols, and trails are well-traveled. Guides are trained in first aid and local terrain. Always follow instructions, stay hydrated, and communicate any medical concerns to your guide.
Do I need to buy Machu Picchu tickets separately?
No. The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is typically included in the tour package, along with the return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain require advance booking due to limited permits, so notify your operator when reserving.
What should I bring for the jungle climate?
Expect warm and humid conditions at lower altitudes. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, insect repellent, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), quick-dry materials, comfortable walking shoes or trail runners, and a light rain jacket or poncho. These items ensure comfort and safety while trekking through the jungle paths.
💲Prices – Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days to Machu Picchu
Group Service: return by bus to Cusco
- $250 USD per person
Shared experience with up to 20 trekkers. Great for budget-conscious travelers looking to make new friends!
Group Service: return by Tren to Cusco
- $329 USD per person
Shared experience with up to 20 trekkers. Great for budget-conscious travelers looking to make new friends!
Discounts:
- Students with a valid university card: $20 USD off
- Children under 17: $25 USD off (must show passport)
- Children under 8: $25 USD off
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